How to Reach Lakshadweep from Kolkata: Complete 2025 Travel Guide

Planning a Lakshadweep trip from Kolkata, but don’t know the best way to reach? Here is your guide on how to reach Lakshadweep from Kolkata. The journey from Kolkata to Lakshadweep requires connecting flights since no direct routes exist. You’ll first fly from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) to Cochin International Airport (COK), then connect to Agatti Airport (AGX), the only airport in Lakshadweep. The total journey time ranges from 8-12 hours, including layovers.

Highlights

• No direct flights available – All routes require at least one connection through Kochi. 
• Total travel time: 8-12 hours, including connections and waiting time 
• Entry permits are mandatory. Apply 30 days in advance through the Lakshadweep Administration 
• Best route: Kolkata → Kochi → Agatti (most frequent connections available) 
• Peak season: October to March, with higher prices and booking required

Checkout: Lakshadweep Tourism

Ways to reach from Kolkata to Lakshadweep

Fishing boat anchored near the white sandy beach and turquoise waters of Lakshadweep

There is no direct flight to Lakshadweep, so all travellers must connect via Kochi or occasionally Bengaluru/Chennai. You may get to Lakshadweep from Kolkata via flight or train. 

By Air: Kolkata to Kochi to Agatti 

All travellers must transit through mainland India before reaching Agatti Airport, the only airport serving Lakshadweep.

Route	Duration	Airlines Available
Kolkata to Kochi (Direct)	2.5-3 hours	IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet
Kolkata to Kochi (1 Stop)	4-6 hours	Various airlines via Bangalore/Chennai
Kochi to Agatti Island	1.5 hours	Alliance Air (a subsidiary of Air India)

Tips: The runway at Agatti Airport is short, so try to get a left-side window seat for spectacular lagoon views when landing. 

By Train: From Kolkata to Kochi to Agatti 

There is no direct train to Lakshawadeep as it is an island, surrounded by water. You can get on a train from Kolkata to  Kochi’s Ernakulam Junction, followed by a ship. The average Cost for both transportation is around INR 2,000 – INR 8,000 per person. Ships run from Kochi to various islands in Lakshadweep, which take around 14-20 hours to reach.

Cost Breakdown: Kolkata to Lakshadweep Trip

Travel Component	Budget (INR )	Mid-Range (INR )	Premium (INR )
Kolkata → Kochi	8,000	12,000	18,000
Kochi → Lakshadweep	3,000	6,000	10,000
Total (One Way)	11,000	18,000	28,000

Additional Travel Expenses

• Entry permit: INR 500 per person 
• Airport transfers in Kochi: INR 800-1,200 

Inter-Island Transportation in Lakshadweep

Once you’ve arrived in Agatti, use boats and helicopters to explore the surrounding islands. There are regular ferry services to travel to attractions in Lakshadweep, like Bangaram, Kavaratti, and Minicoy. A boat ride can cost you around INR 500-2,000 per person, depending on distance and boat type. Additionally, a helicopter ride can cost between INR 3000 and INR 8000 each trip. 

Checkout: Is a passport required to enter Lakshadweep?

Emergency Contacts

• Lakshadweep Tourism: 0484-266-8387 
• Kochi Port: 0484-266-1595 
• Emergency (Islands): 108

Essential Tips for Kolkata to Lakshadweep Travel

Beach huts and coconut palm trees on a white sand beach in Lakshadweep

• Apply for Entry Permits 30 days before travel, as Lakshadweep requires mandatory entry permits for all visitors.
• Bring Sunscreen with high SPF, Reef-safe toiletries and a waterproof phone case.
• Ships to Kavaratti often leave at night; book a first-class cabin for quieter travel.
• Travel insurance covering water activities is recommended
• Non-swimmers can enjoy snorkelling with life jackets 
• Book Agatti flights 45-60 days in advance 
• Do carry cash, as there are limited ATM and card facilities on the islands

Checkout: Is Alcohol Allowed in Lakshadweep?

Conclusion: Best Way to Reach Lakshadweep

Reaching Lakshadweep from Kolkata takes planning, but it is worth it. The journey involves connecting flights through Kochi, mandatory entry permits, and advance accommodation bookings. The pristine beauty of Lakshadweep’s coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, and untouched beaches makes this journey worthwhile.  For a hassle-free trip, consider the Lakshadweep tour package from Pickyourtrail and customise your own itinerary. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to reach Lakshadweep from Kolkata?

The total journey time from Kolkata to Lakshadweep is 8-12 hours, including connections. This includes a 2.5-hour flight from Kolkata to Kochi, a 3-4 hour layover, and a 1.5-hour flight from Kochi to Agatti. 

Are there direct flights from Kolkata to Lakshadweep?

No, there are no direct flights from Kolkata to Lakshadweep. All travellers must connect through Kochi (most common) or other mainland cities like Bangalore. 

What is the cheapest way to travel from Kolkata to Lakshadweep?

The most economical approach is booking flights during the off-season (April-September) and choosing budget accommodations. 

How much does a complete Kolkata to Lakshadweep trip cost?

A budget trip costs INR 25,000-30,000 per person for 4-5 days, including flights, accommodation, permits, and meals. 

What documents do I need for travel from Kolkata?

You need a mandatory entry permit obtained 30 days before travel. Required documents include an Aadhaar card or passport copy, recent passport-size photographs, a completed online application form, and an INR 500 permit fee payment.